My dog recently returned from a three-week training boot camp where a former Sea World trainer taught him how to behave. We are sticking perfectly to his training regiment, which includes the use of an electronic shock collar. I've shocked myself with the collar to make sure it's not painful - it's not, it just gives him a little reminder.

He is at the point where he walks perfectly at my side on walks (literally inches from my left knee). He can do this even when there are other dogs and people on our walks. If I stop, he politely just sits down. When we tell him to lay down, we can throw balls or treats, run around, bring another dog in the room, or do whatever else and he'll stay put. When I tell him to come, he comes bounding over toward me and sits politely at my feet.

We have to keep this up for a while until it becomes second nature, but I cannot express how much more enjoyable it is to have a really, really well behaved dog. Our house is way less chaotic. He is also so much happier because he can now be with us basically anywhere no matter what. We don't have to leave him at home when we go to the park or stick him in the backyard to get a break. Anyway, owning a poorly behaved dog is a nightmare. A really well behaved dog is the best thing ever.